The pineta alta - high pine forest - offers a relaxing setting, with a lovely lake set in verdant subalpine vegetation.
The "pineta alta", not far from the village of Montegrino, is an area of pine forest, through which the road leading up to Monte Sette Termini runs. At one point, the pine forest is mirrored in a picturesque lake with its water-lilies. This lake is superbly scenic in its setting of verdant subalpine vegetation, and in addition it has become a fundamental habitat for the reproduction of certain amphibian species (red frogs and toads) present in the area.
Not far from the pine forest is the prehistoric Montegrino altar, a large rock with carved inscriptions dating back to the Bronze Age. These decorative symbols are difficult to decipher, and they have attracted considerable interest amongst experts and scholars, who have compared them with analogous petroglyphs by Celtic and Scandinavian populations.
Another feature of interest in this area consists of the fortifications that were part of the Cadorna Line, a line of defence built during the First World War. Today it provides opportunities for a range of excursions, on foot or by BMX bike, with tourist and educational routes following the ancient military track.
A "fitness route" runs alongside the lake and into the dense woodland of the area.

Pineta bassa: a peaceful natural setting with fine viewpoints and many opportunities for leisure activities and relaxation.
The "pineta bassa" - low pine forest - is near Montegrino, and its facilities were initiated by Cavaliere Luigi Pontevia, Mayor of the town in the early 20th century. From the metalled road leading to Luino, a track runs into this interesting natural environment, with pine forests cloaking a hill dominating Valtravaglia and Luino.
All those who like hiking will enjoy this gigantic natural viewpoint looking over the northern reaches of the Verbano area, with a landscape featuring Lake Maggiore and the majestic profile of Monte Rosa, which looms up behind the surrounding hills and the great lake valley.
The low pine forest offers many opportunities for leisure and relaxation for all ages. The facilities include catering establishments, play areas for children, and tennis courts.